Local jurisdictions: structures, powers, and governance

Local Jurisdiction

What are the local jurisdictions covering your community? Remember that these jurisdictions probably overlap such as jurisdictions in counties, cities, townships, and special districts. Provide the names of the jurisdictions and the main Web site of each.

Executive branch

The Mayor, the Public Advocate, the Comptroller and the five Borough Presidents. ("Mayor Bloomberg," 2011)

Legislative branch

Operates as the City Council. They have the ability to pass various laws and ordinances by a simple majority. ("The New York City Council," 2011)

Judicial branch

The different city courts including: Surrogate's, civil and criminal court. ("New York City Courts," 2011)

Community Boards

Local governmental bodies that represent the interests of the citizens and different communities. Individuals are nominated to serve on these boards by the Borough Presidents. The names of a few include: the Brooklyn and Manhattan Community Boards. ("Community Boards," 2011)

Briefly describe the main responsibilities of each jurisdiction.

Executive branch

Responsible for: enforcing different laws, providing services to the community and dealing with various budgetary issues. (Berg, 2007)

Legislative branch

Enacts various laws and ordinances that are designed to protect the safety of the general public. (Berg, 2007)

Judicial branch

Interpret the laws and their constitutionality in relation to previous case precedent. (Berg, 2007)

Community Boards